BEDFORD — Knights of Columbus Council 1166 has raised more than $22,000 to date through its 49th annual Tootsie Roll Drive, benefiting local children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Lawrence County.
Organizers expressed sincere gratitude to the local businesses, civic groups, volunteers, and individual donors who contributed during the primary collection weekend on Friday and Saturday. Storefront collection sites were hosted at several community retail locations, including Walmart, Rural King, Johnny Junxions, and Price Less IGA.
Supporting Local Programs and Schools
Proceeds from the 2026 drive directly fund vital regional organizations and local special education classrooms. Beneficiaries of this year’s drive include:
- Lawrence County Special Olympics
- Lawrence County Arc
- Special education students at North Lawrence Community Schools
- Special education students at Mitchell Community Schools
- St. Vincent de Paul School
- Lawrence County Independent Schools
- Springville Community Academy
Event organizers extended special appreciation to volunteers from Lawrence County Special Olympics and Lawrence County Arc who worked alongside members of the Knights of Columbus at storefront entrances over the weekend.
Upcoming Collection Date & How to Donate
Collection efforts for the 2026 campaign remain ongoing. The Knights will host an additional street-side collection drive on Saturday, November 7, at the intersection of Main Street and Teke Burton Drive in Mitchell.
Community members wishing to contribute to the drive prior to the November event can mail donations directly to: Knights of Columbus Tootsie Roll Drive, 2202 M Street, Bedford, IN 47421
